The predictive validity of the Zung Index of Potential Suicide

Examined the predictive validity of the Zung Index of Potential Suicide. Subjects hospitalized for a suicide attempt were followed up 6 months later. In agreement with earlier studies, the IPS clinical scale was related to suicidal ideation and prior attempting at the time of admission. However, it was not related to further suicidal behavior or ideation at the 6-month followup. It is concluded that the scale lacks predictive validity and its use for assigning suicidal risk is not justified.